Unshelved: Cool Stuff from Storage Opens Nov. 18. This brand-new exhibition at the Nat gives visitors a rare peek into the museum’s research collection areas and storage spaces, which are behind gallery walls and not typically seen by the public. The exhibit features an impressive display of specimens from all around the world, such as brilliant gems, an emperor penguin, massive bats, a 20 foot long anaconda skin and more. Exhibit included with admission. $19 adults, $12 kids. 1788 El Prado, 619.232.3821. sdnhm.org

50th Anniversary Score Baja 1000Nov. 16-19. The region’s most anticipated event includes 4×4 cars and motorcycles racing over 1,300 miles in what is described as the “toughest and greatest race on Earth.” Visit website for full details. score-international.com

Encinitas Fall Festival Nov. 19. With over 450 booths to visit plus dozens of unique downtown Encinitas retailers, this event is the perfect chance to get a head start on your holiday shopping. Guests will also enjoy music from The Lumberyard Courtyard, a Kids Zone, food vendors and other entertainment. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Coast Highway 101 between D and J Streets. kennedyfaires.com

FOOD + DRINK

Tour of ScotlandNov. 18. Sample and discuss rare and small batch Scotches in a convivial atmosphere. Guests will “tour” Scotland from the Highlands to Speyside to Islay, bringing the tastes of each region to be considered and compared by all who attend. 6:30-8 p.m. $35. Vom Fass Hillcrest, 1050 University Avenue E-103. vomfasshillcrest.com

Italian Wine DinnerNov. 16. Join Farmer’s Bottega for an exclusive five-course Italian wine dinner hosted by Young Market’s wine sommelier, Alex Daniels. Upon arrival, each guest will be treated to a glass of champagne and an amuse-bouche prepared by executive chef Alberto Morreale. Featuring a variety of Italian blends to pique every palate, the menu is curated to pair decadent farm-to-fork dishes with a variety of Italian wines, merging robust flavors with quality reds and whites for a culinary experience suited to foodies and wine-drinkers alike. 6:30-8:30 p.m. $70. 860 W Washington St., 619.458.9929. Tickets

ARTS + CULTURE

Dr. Seuss’ ‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas’Through Dec. 24. Spirited kids—young and old alike—will enjoy the annual holiday production of the Dr. Seuss classic, How the Grinch Stole Christmas at the Old Globe Theatre. Back for its 20th incredible year, the family favorite features the songs “This Time of Year,” “Santa for a Day,” and “Fah Who Doraze,” the delightful carol from the popular animated version of How the Grinch Stole Christmas! Shiley Stage at the Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park. theoldglobe.org

‘Smoke on the Mountain’Through Nov. 19. The Sanders Family Singers are back on the road, and Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church will never be quite the same again in this hilarious ensemble musical comedy. $68. Lamb’s Players Theatre, 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado. lambsplayers.org

For the Sender: ‘Love Letters from Vietnam’Nov. 18.Love Letters from Vietnam tells the poignant true story of Vietnam veteran Sgt. John K. Fuller through the letters he wrote home from the war, which were discovered and answered decades later by his daughter, Jennifer. This two-act show is featuring and written by critically-acclaimed, award-winning songwriter Alex Woodard. View website for schedule and pricing. powayonstage.org